Right now, you can't purchase Chromecast in Canada, and that usually means that Google won't get around to letting Canadians use it for years, or ever. For example, Google Music, Google Voice, etc.
Well, even though I am from Canada, I went ahead and purchased a Chromecast on Amazon and had it shipped to an American address. You will be happy to know that the product information pamphlet doesn't say anything about it not working in other countries. More importantly, the last two pages are dedicated to information about how it is compliant with Industry Canada regulations.
Here is to hoping!
UPDATE:
Just to make sure all you Canadians know -- Chromecast works excellent in Canada.. there are no regional restrictions once you have the device. The only thing you need to worry about is getting one. Oh, and it's freaking awesome! Best $35 ever spent.
Addicted to the mysteries of Google? Discover the past, present and future of this company... anything from theories about their algorithm to possible future services they may offer.
Tuesday, July 30, 2013
Monday, July 22, 2013
Google Glass vs. Smart Watches
Google Glass and Smart Watch technology are actually two different form factors that serve the same purpose. The only difference between the two is that Google Glass takes pictures, and a smart watch likely won't (waiting for Samsung, Google and Apple for anything official of course).
When it comes to real-time, time-sensitive notifications, they both do the same thing. It is easy to argue that the watch form factor is actually a lot more feasible, and could see greater adoption in the consumer market.
First, you have to wear Google Glass on your face. You might as well get a Mike Tyson tattoo while you are at it. Unless you are in the market for a face-mounted camera (which I guess some people might be), a watch makes more sense -- the only advantage Google Glass has is a camera.
The sheer number of important time-sensitive notifications that people get (not including email) is quite low, and doesn't warrant wearing something on your face all day long. Even using "Google Now" can be embarrassing for some people -- since the low frequency of time-sensitive information people need makes one feel boring.
So, if this "real-time, time-sensitive" device is only going to be actively used for around 3 minutes a day, something on your wrist that won't get the wearer accused of taking sneaky pictures when they actually aren't, and still really good at alerting you (by vibrating) seems like something most people would be quite comfortable with.
But do you need something like this at all? Well, it's true that these types of notifications are also available on your phone, but with a watch, you don't have to worry about missing anything -- A buzz on your wrist is far more effective, and less annoying, than a buzz/ding in your pocket.
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